OPS celebrates National Indigenous History Month with tipi raisings
Submitted by Nicky Beynon
Oyen Public School was privileged to acquire one of the traditional tipis that were donated to Prairie Rose Public Schools from Saamis Park in Medicine Hat.
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On June 18th OPS’s outdoor classroom became a hive of activity as Grade 3-6 students enthusiastically took part in two traditional tipi raisings. We were so lucky that Mr. Cory Schiebelbein from Eagle Butte High School shared his expertise with us about Indigenous ways, and led us through the steps to ensure it was properly erected. The students were amazed at how the initial tripod was made and hoisted, and how sturdy it was. Tying the canvas to one pole and then lifting it proved to be a very efficient way to get the cover into the correct place.
We kept it up for a few days so students could use it for reading and class work.
Do you know why the door of a tipi always faces east? Do you know what the flaps at the top are for, and how they are operated? Ask an OPS student.
The tipi poles are Lodgepole pines. They are used as a 20-25 ft length can be cut without any branch knots, therefore making them very sturdy.
Thank you to Ms. Sharol MacSwain too for providing us with the handout, “Tradition of the Tipi”.
Our tipi raisings were an appropriate way to recognize and celebrate National Indigenous History Month.